DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
If a landlord is found to be unsuitable—known as not being a “fit and proper person”—the council can remove them from the official register of private landlords. This decision is based on serious concerns such as criminal convictions, harassment or illegal eviction of tenants, failure to carry out repairs, or allowing antisocial behaviour in their properties. Councils assess each case individually, considering both past actions and whether problems are likely to happen again. If removed, the landlord is no longer legally allowed to rent out property, and continuing to do so could result in fines or other penalties.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Housing
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Neighbourhood and environment
Emerging policy and legislation
1
Bodies with shared interest
Standards and frameworks
2